Theatre Calgary's production of the acclaimed musical Come From Away has already secured an extended run, even as rehearsals for the show only commenced this week. The musical, which is scheduled to open on May 26, will now continue through June 27, with the original closing date of June 21 being pushed back.
Record-Breaking Ticket Sales
Tickets for the initially planned four-week engagement sold out in record time, prompting the extension. For the additional performances, more than half of the main floor seats are available at a special price of $49 each.
Opening Night Festivities
To celebrate the opening, Theatre Calgary will host a 'kitchen party' following the show on opening night. This separate ticketed event promises a lively experience, described as including a drink, food, music, and possibly even a 'kissing of the cod' ceremony.
About the Musical
Come From Away, with music and lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, tells the heartwarming true story of how the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, housed and cared for approximately 7,000 passengers from 38 planes that were diverted there following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in New York, Washington, and Pennsylvania.
The Canadian musical made its Broadway debut in 2017 and quickly became a favorite among critics and audiences alike, running for 1,694 performances. It earned seven Tony Award nominations, including Best Musical, and won a Tony for Christopher Ashley's direction.
Local Popularity
Come From Away has consistently drawn large crowds in Calgary, having previously sold out three engagements at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium as part of the Broadway Across Canada series.
Cast and Creative Team
Theatre Calgary's production features a predominantly local cast, including Mark Bellamy, N. Girgis, Eric Wigston, Elizabeth Stepkowski Tarhan, Ethan Vasquez Taylor, and Katelyn Morishita. Each actor portrays multiple characters, embodying both townspeople and stranded passengers.
The production is directed and choreographed by Jesse Robb, who previously choreographed Theatre Calgary's A Christmas Carol in December.
